Conservatorship abuse can take many forms, from physical abuse (e.g. beatings, bed sores, broken bones), emotional abuse (e.g. verbal abuse, undue influence), or financial abuse (e.g. financial affairs in disorder, unduly influenced gifts, theft of money, property or real property).

Signs of Abuse

Conservatorship abuse tends to be financial in nature; example: the conservator stealing or embezzling money from the ward; missing assets; large withdraws from bank accounts, etc.  Other signs of abuses can include:

— Unpaid Bill Notices:  notices for unpaid credit card bills; car loan, taxes, etc.

—  Bounced Checks:  checks start bouncing; bill collectors calling

— Changes in Family Gifting:  person suddenly giving out expensive gifts to themselves and others

— Changes in Wills, Estate Plans, or Living Trusts:  person changing beneficiaries in the Will; changing who gets what asset or taking back assets.

Reporting Abuse

One of the best course of action is to hire a probate estate attorney.

You can also contact your attorney general office to report financial elder abuse, and you can file a complaint with your local police or sheriff department.  The police will consider it a civil matter; however, your attorney general office may just investigate the matter.